Different network architectures have their pros and cons; and knowing them is the key to picking out the right one for your needs.
Peer-to-peer models are often inexpensive and easy to put up because you don’t need to invest in a powerful server. Theoretically, all you need are network cables or a router, and you’re good to go. It’s also quite robust; if one computer goes down, the network stays up. The distributed nature also lessens or at least spreads out the network load to prevent congestions.
However, peer-to-peer models are harder to manage. Since there’s no centralized hub, you’d need to configure each computer individually to set up, for example, security software. Thus, peer-to-peer networks are also less secure. One hacked computer is all it takes to hijack the network.
Client/server models, on the other hand, are easier to manage because they take on a centralized approach. You can set up access privileges, firewalls, and proxy servers to boost the network’s security. Thus, a client/server setup is best for large networks over larger distances.
The disadvantage of this approach is that a client/server architecture is more expensive to set up, as you need a powerful server to handle the network load. It also requires a dedicated administrator to manage the server, which adds to payroll.
But the biggest con of a client/server model is that the server is a weak link. If the server goes down, the entire network shuts down. Thus, security is often the most robust at and near the server.
Computer Network Architecture Examples
Let’s take a look at how network architecture works in practice. Let’s use a manufacturing company with various locations globally as an example.
Each location, such as a factory, will have its own network. If the manufacturing site uses Internet of Things (IoT) sensors on its equipment, it will most likely use edge computing. These sensors will be connected via WiFi to an edge gateway device or an on-site server. This can also accept user devices on the factory, such as employee workstations and mobile phones.
These mini networks will then be connected to the company’s wide area network (WAN), often using a client/server architecture. Corporate headquarters will often house the central server, although a server on the cloud is also a possibility these days. Regardless, network administrators on HQ can monitor and manage the whole WAN infrastructure.
The enterprise WAN is also connected to the Internet via a broadband connection, courtesy of their service provider.
